Laboratory Safety and Quality Control Flashcards
6 cards from real ASCP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Laboratory Safety and Quality Control flashcards as text
What does CAP checklist item require regarding the turnaround time (TAT) for surgical pathology specimens?
Answer: Laboratories must establish, monitor, and document TAT goals for different specimen types
CAP requires laboratories to define TAT goals appropriate for specimen type and urgency, and to monitor and document performance against those goals.
What is the purpose of proficiency testing (PT) in clinical histology laboratories?
Answer: To externally validate laboratory performance by testing unknown samples against peer laboratories
Proficiency testing uses blind samples distributed to multiple laboratories; results are compared to peer performance and expected values to confirm laboratory accuracy.
Under CLIA regulations, who is responsible for the overall operation and administration of a histology laboratory?
Answer: The laboratory director
CLIA designates the laboratory director as ultimately responsible for all laboratory operations, test performance, quality, and regulatory compliance.
What is the standard recommended storage temperature for most unstained paraffin sections awaiting IHC testing?
Answer: Room temperature for up to a limited time; refrigeration (4°C) for longer storage
Unstained sections are best stored at room temperature short-term or at 4°C for extended periods, as oxidation degrades antigenic epitopes over time.
What is the role of internal quality controls in an H&E staining batch?
Answer: To verify that each staining run is performing within acceptable standards before patient slides are released
Internal controls run with each batch confirm that staining reagents, timing, and technique are working acceptably, ensuring patient results are reliable.
Which regulatory body sets standards for quality systems in US clinical laboratories, including histology?
Answer: CLIA (administered by CMS), with accreditation from CAP or Joint Commission
CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments), administered by CMS, sets federal quality standards for all US clinical labs, with CAP and The Joint Commission as authorized accreditation organizations.